High Needs Teaching Assistant (Pupil-Specific)

Hours: 32.5 hours per week, term time only.

Working Pattern: We welcome applications for part‑time or job share arrangements. Flexible working patterns will be considered and discussed at interview.

Salary: Support Staff Scale Band C, full‑time equivalent salary range £25,185 - £29,540 but after pro‑rata £19,495 - £22,866.

Contract: Fixed term until 31st December 2026 in the first instance with the possibility of extension (linked to EHCP funding).

About the role: We are seeking a committed and proactive High Needs Teaching Assistant to provide tailored support for a learner with complex needs in Key Stage 3. This is a highly rewarding role for someone who is passionate about inclusion and wants to make a tangible difference every day. You will play a pivotal role in supporting the learner’s academic progress, emotional wellbeing and social development enabling full participation in school life.

Purpose of Role:

• Provide personal support for a learner with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), adapting strategies to meet individual needs.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, pastoral teams, families, and external professionals to ensure cohesive and consistent support.
• Promote inclusion and belonging, balancing individual support with classroom opportunities and wider school activities.
• Implement effective strategies relevant to the learner’s Down’s Syndrome profile, adjusted to their individual needs.
• Implement strategies relevant to the learner’s Down syndrome profile, using trauma‑informed approaches and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) where appropriate.
• Maintain clear and consistent records; support attendance, safeguarding and wellbeing in line with school policies and Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) guidance.

We are looking for someone who:

• Holds a Level 3 qualification in childcare/child development or equivalent.
• Has substantial experience supporting learners with SEND, ideally with Down’s syndrome and complex needs.
• Has knowledge of the Early Years and Primary frameworks of learning.
• Demonstrates resilience, integrity, and resourcefulness with a solution‑focused mindset.
• Communicates effectively with families, professionals, and colleagues, maintaining confidentiality and professionalism.
• Is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all learners.

Why Join Summit Learning Trust?

• A welcoming, supportive, and inclusive working environment.
• Commitment to your professional development with high‑quality CPD opportunities and career progression.
• Access to staff wellbeing initiatives and a wide range of employee benefits.
• The opportunity to make a meaningful and lasting difference to a young person’s life.

Visits to the Academy are encouraged. Please contact 0121 743 3402 to arrange this. The closing date is 10th May 2026; it is expected that interviews will be held shortly after. We warmly welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and communities. Summit Learning Trust is proud to be an equal opportunities employer, committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected and supported to thrive. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all colleagues to share this commitment. All appointments will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, including a Children’s Barred List check, and online searches will be conducted for shortlisted candidates. Our Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy is available to view at summitlearning.org.uk. If you require the application form in a different format, please contact hr.enquiries@summitlearningtrust.org.uk.